Approximately 17,000 residents in the state of Connecticut- including the wealthy and the poor, the old and the young, and people of all races- are now facing the overwhelming challenge of living with HIV and AIDS. In relation to its total population, Connecticut has the eighth highest incidence of AIDS in the United States, and is ranked the single highest for transmission through injected drug use, 2nd highest for women infected with the disease, and 3rd highest for Latino carriers.
A number of organizations throughout the state provide support (both medical and emotional) that make an enormous difference in the lives of those who greatly need it. One such organization needs your help.
The Oasis Wellness Center is located directly across from the Middlesex Hospital, within walking distance from campus. Celebrating its tenth year this April, Oasis is committed to serving those infected with HIV and AIDS through weekly meals and programs, comfortable environs, access to case managers, a psychologist, a massage therapist and an acupuncturist. Perhaps most importantly, the center provides a space in which clients can feel comfortable.
The community at Oasis is small and, as a result, close-knit and hospitable. The clients that attend are familiar faces, and many enjoy sitting down over a hot meal (served every Wednesday) and sharing stories, ideas, political opinions, and local gossip. Oasis has successfully fostered a nurturing environment for all who attend.
Wendy Raubaugh, the Program Coordinator, is enthusiastic about both increasing the number of clients and taking on a number of new volunteers that will help out at the Center. Though Wes students have volunteered in the past, I am currently the only one there at the moment- and there should definitely be more. In addition, Wendy is in the process of establishing a buddy system between Oasis clients and Wes students, which will only come to fruition with the support of the Wes community.
Oasis is not a medical clinic, and so those who volunteer are not relegated to paperwork positions. You talk with the clients themselves, instead of looking at their names on schedules or a doctor’s notes. You as a volunteer will offer clients a listening ear, while at the same time learning an enormous amount yourself. The clients that attend are there because they want to be; for them, it is first and foremost a social gathering place. If you are interested in volunteering your time, or have any questions, please contact me at es*******@******an.edu . Within days you can be working this often overlooked but nevertheless rewarding community.
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